Suncity
Suncity
Suncity typically refers to Sun City, a luxury resort and casino located in the North West Province of South Africa. It is internationally known for its entertainment options, including casinos, hotels, golf courses, water parks (Valley of Waves), live music venues (Sun City Superbowl), and wildlife experiences (Pilanesberg National Park is nearby).
History:
Sun City was developed by Sol Kerzner's Southern Sun hotel group and opened in 1979, during the apartheid era in South Africa. It was built in Bophuthatswana, a nominally independent bantustan (homeland), which allowed it to circumvent the international sanctions and South African laws prohibiting gambling and nude entertainment at the time. This allowed Sun City to become a popular destination for both South Africans and international tourists seeking entertainment forbidden elsewhere in the country.
Features and Attractions:
- Casino: The Sun City Casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines and table games.
- Hotels: The resort boasts several hotels, each with distinct styles and offerings, including The Palace of the Lost City, The Cascades, The Sun City Hotel, and The Cabanas.
- Valley of Waves: A water park featuring artificial waves, slides, and pools.
- Golf Courses: Sun City is home to two Gary Player-designed golf courses: the Gary Player Country Club and the Lost City Golf Course. The Gary Player Country Club hosts the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge.
- Entertainment Centre: Hosts concerts, shows, and events. The Sun City Superbowl is a large indoor arena used for major performances.
- Pilanesberg National Park: Located adjacent to Sun City, offering visitors the opportunity to experience African wildlife.
- Other Activities: A wide range of other activities are available, including hot air balloon rides, ziplining, quad biking, and cultural experiences.
Controversy:
During the apartheid era, Sun City was criticized by anti-apartheid activists for its association with the Bophuthatswana bantustan and for its role in profiting from segregation. Artists who performed at Sun City faced boycotts and condemnation.
Post-Apartheid:
Following the end of apartheid in 1994, Sun City underwent significant changes and renovations. It remains a popular tourist destination, although its unique draw of being a place to circumvent restrictive laws has diminished. It now operates within the legal framework of a democratic South Africa.
Related Terms:
- Sol Kerzner
- Southern Sun
- Bophuthatswana
- Valley of Waves
- The Palace of the Lost City
- Pilanesberg National Park
- Nedbank Golf Challenge